Yost leaves helm of AmerisourceBergen

VALLEY FORGE, Pa. — AmerisourceBergen Monday afternoon announced that CEO David Yost will retire from the wholesaler, effective July 1, after 37 years with the company and the last 14 as CEO.

Yost will be succeeded by Steven Collis, 49.

"Ten years after we announced the merger that created AmerisourceBergen, I am announcing my plans to retire," Yost said. "With our strong position in the growth areas of the pharmaceutical supply chain, generics and specialty pharmaceuticals, I believe [AmerisourceBergen] is exceptionally well-positioned for continued success, and that the company's future has never been brighter.”

Collis, a 17-year AmerisourceBergen veteran, currently is president and COO, responsible for all AmerisourceBergen business units, including AmerisourceBergen Drug Corp., AmerisourceBergen Specialty Group, AmerisourceBergen Consulting Services and AmerisourceBergen Packaging Group. Before being promoted to his current position in November 2010, Collis was EVP AmerisourceBergen and president of ABDC, the wholesaler’s largest subsidiary with revenues of more than $60 billion. Collis originally helped found ABSG and was the driving force behind growing the business into a $16 billion business.

"Steve's experience and skills make him eminently qualified to be the next CEO of AmerisourceBergen," Yost said. "The company has great momentum, a seasoned and proven management team and a superb customer-focused, cost-conscious culture. I have no doubts that Steve will continue to grow our business and provide value to our customers, suppliers, shareholders and our associates."